If you find it hard to stay positive take a moment and think of something in your life that brings you joy – whether that is your hour of sunshine, your family, or binge watching junk television. Always keep an eye out for silver linings even in the most difficult of times.
My grandmother always said that is rains on Easter. I spent every Easter with her until she passed on fifteen years ago. I have a lot of happy memories of that tradition – we would make the seven hour drive and spend a week or so with her right when spring began. However, if she were still alive we would have to break the tradition this year. Although it’s sad to miss out on big holidays with friends and families, the more we distance the more likely we will get to resume our traditions or make new or better ones once this is all over. If you celebrate, I hope you have a lovely Easter.
I have found that during lockdown some days it is nice to keep it casual and other days it’s refreshing to do my hair and get myself ready like I’m headed out. I’m also a fan of the “Zoom mullet” which refers to professional above the waist and then casual sweats or yoga pants. Either way, do what makes you feel best!
Social distancing, lockdowns and quarantines are difficult for all. To stay connected, perhaps hold onto hope and find solidarity amongst people across the globe, a Facebook group has emerged called View From My Window. The rules are simple – you post where you are in the world and the view from your window – as we are all must stay inside as much as possible. People from all over the world have posted lovely pictures, but yesterday someone posted one and has kindly given me permission to use it here.
I am pleased to introduce you to Zippy from Killiechronan, Isle of Mull, Scotland and his brother George. Their human friend, Jean O’Donnell shared the first photo and sent along a few others to share.
You never know what is happening behind the scenes, so approach every person and situation with kindness, compassion and patience.
Many years ago, while I was trolling the depths of the internet, before our family ever knew it would eventually relocate to the UK, I discovered something wonderful. It was the Oxford-Cambridge Goat Race, hosted by Spitalfields City Farm in London. Every year, one goat representing Cambridge faces off against one goat representing Oxford race across the farm to a crowd of delighted caprid enthusiasts. It was an instant addition to my bucket list.
About three years ago, I was fortunate enough to be able to attend, and we were lucky enough to enjoy the 2018 and 2019 races as well. The 2020 race has been postponed in light of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, and we hope to see the goats again!
Pigs have feelings too! Perhaps after a few weeks of March of Pigs you may have noticed that pigs are actually quite expressive. That’s because they feel a wide range of emotions, just like humans. Pigs can feel joy and happiness as well as suffer from negative emotions like sadness and grief. Pigs are not only emotional creatures, but have been observed to show compassion for others, and feel distress at seeing their animal and human friends suffering. They have distinctive personalities, some are shy and some are gregarious just like us. In addition to having excellent memories, it is very likely that pigs have complex feelings and thoughts, and are even able to understand symbolic languages similar to higher primates and dolphins. Amazing!
I hope if you are reading this now that you are safe and well and able to have everything you need to get through the next few weeks or months. Lockdown, quarantine or isolation can be pretty dreary, but luckily we live in times when we are all able to stay connected. Take care, friends and keep washing your hands.
We are going to pause our March of Pigs for an opportunity for some quarantine fun and fundraising.
Cooped up inside, being socially distant, canceling plans, routines and holidays can be a huge bummer. Take a break from the chaos and enjoy a virtual tour of The Haven Zoo!
Just like everyone, the Haven is doing its part to support social distancing to stop the spread of coronavirus, and have closed their gates to in-person visitors. However, the Haven relies on donations to keep the animals healthy and fed. So you can support the Haven AND continue to practice good social distancing by booking a virtual tour of the zoo plus a special viewing of feeding time! Book your virtual tour here.
Scientists and public health experts have asked that we all keep at least six feet or two meters apart from one another. That can be a bit difficult to visualize. Perhaps some of our camelid pals from the Haven can help us out – a llama is about six feet long, so maintain a llama distance apart to stay safe and stop the spread! And of course, keep washing your hands.
Always do your best and everything will turn out ok.
Goat of the Day 